Pucks and Pitchforks
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5 Potential PTO Options for the New Jersey Devils

For the most part, the New Jersey Devils have their roster set. However, there are some players out there that Tom Fitzgerald could bring in to compete for those last few spots during training camp through a professional tryout.

By Neil Villapiano

Is bringing in a hometown guy on a PTO in the cards?
Is bringing in a hometown guy on a PTO in the cards? / Maddie Meyer/GettyImages
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2. Cal Clutterbuck

Another option for the Devils' bottom six that would bring a physical game is Cal Clutterbuck. It is a little surprising that he hasn't been re-signed by the New York Islanders, but that could be to the advantage of New Jersey. While his injury history is something worth noting, Clutterbuck gives it his all when he's out there. He even is coming off last year where he stayed healthy and played every game for New York. There are a couple of other assets that he brings to the table.

The first is that Clutterbuck loves to hit. He finished last year with the fifth-most hits of any player in the NHL with 273. If he played alongside recently acquired Paul Cotter, it could make for a tough duo to deal with for the opposing teams. He's also known for being someone who gets under the skin of other teams which is something the Devils have lacked in their lineup. The soon-to-be 37-year-old will stick up for his teammates as well, yet another part that the team has lacked. While he won't get many points, Clutterbuck brings playoff-like play every game as well as adding some nastiness.

3. Nick Cousins

A similar player to Clutterbuck with a smaller stature is Nick Cousins. The Devils are still looking to replace what Michael McLeod brought to the team and Cousins could be someone who could provide that. In helping the Florida Panthers capture their first Stanley Cup, the centerman became an invaluable part of the team's identity. He's a physical player who is very good on the penalty kill. However, the most vital thing he brings is his success on the faceoff dot.

In 2023-24, Cousins finished the campaign with a 53.1% faceoff win percentage. That's better than any center the Devils had last year on the bottom six. New Jersey had troubles on their PK due in large part to their lack of faceoff success in their zone. With Cousins, he would help the special teams in a multitude of different ways. Bringing in some more championship experience to the locker room isn't bad either I might add.

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